California Gives Hybrids a Break

The Daily Auto Insider: The recently passed federal transportation bill allows the California DMV to issue special stickers to owners of hybrid vehicles that will permit them to drive without penalty in HOV lanes with only one occupant.

The recently passed federal transportation bill allows the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue special stickers to owners of hybrid vehicles that will permit them to drive without penalty in High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes with only one occupant, according to a DMV news release.

HOV lanes have traditionally been reserved for vehicles carrying at least two people.

However, California passed a state law that took effect January 1, 2005 that allows hybrid vehicles getting at least 45 miles per gallon to use HOV lanes with only the driver on board. But, because the federal government sets rules for federal interstate roadways, the law couldn't go into effect without putting federal highway money at risk. With the passage of the federal transportation legislation, California has been given a go on its plan.

Consequently, the DMV will proceed with the special sticker distribution program, said DMV Director Joan Borucki. "The yellow stickers will come in a packet of four and will differentiate hybrids from other clean air vehicles. A single sticker must be placed on the front bumper, the back bumper and on the rear quarter panels on both sides of each qualifying vehicle. We are absolutely ready and anxious to get the stickers out to customers as soon as possible," she said.

According to July data, a total of 57,164 hybrid vehicles are registered in California — up from almost 34,000 last year. However, not all will qualify for HOV-lane access. That's because both the state and federal legislation contain technical criteria regarding emissions and fuel efficiency. The California Air Resources Board (ARB) has identified the specific makes and models that do qualify and has posted that information on its website at:
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